System and Method for an Electronic Gift Key

ABSTRACT

A system and method for a physically-based gift key enabling a purchaser to deliver a single, fully-integrated gift item to a recipient and including an electronic greeting card and store credits redeemable online is presented. The method includes the steps of activating a gift key, customizing an electronic greeting card associated with the gift key at a host site via physical or wireless linkage of a gift key to a first local computer, accessing the greeting card at the host site via linkage of the gift key to a second local computer, and redeeming a store credit associated with the gift key at a retail website accessible from the host site. The system includes a gift key and a host computer system directly or indirectly controlling a host site. The gift key has a housing, an integrated circuit within the housing, and a connector or wireless interface extending from the housing so as to allow linkage of the gift key with a computer remotely located with respect to the host and retailer sites. The local computer automatically launches a website at the host or retailer levels when the gift key is linked to the local computer.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based upon and claims priority under 35 U.S.C.§119(e) from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/966,818 filed Aug. 30,2007, entitled System and Method for an Electronic Gift Key, thecontents of which are hereby incorporated in their entirety by referencethereto.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

None.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to an electronic gift keyenabling a purchaser to deliver a single, fully-integrated gift item toa recipient including an electronic greeting card and redeemable storecredits. Specifically, the invention includes a system and methodwhereby an electronic gift key, comprising a decorative housing withintegrated circuit and memory therein and an interface projectingtherefrom, is linkable to a computer either physically or wirelessly,thereafter launching a website at a host site so as to allow a purchaserto customize a greeting card and also allow a recipient to access thecustomized greeting card at the host site and/or redeem store creditsassociated with the gift key at a retail and/or host website.

2. Background

Gift certificates and gift cards enjoy ever increasing popularitybecause of their convenience and ability to allow a recipient thereof toredeem store credits for the purchase of items desired by a recipient,rather than gifts chosen by a purchaser.

Gift certificates and cards are essentially the same, except that giftcards automate the checkout and accounting processes via a barcode ormagnetic strip which is scanned or swiped at the time of purchase anduse.

Gift cards may or may not have an assigned value prior to purchase. Forexample, some gift cards have no value until they are sold, at whichtime a cashier enters the amount which a buyer wishes to associate withthe card. This information is rarely stored on the card, but ratherstored in a database operated by a retailer which is cross referenced tothe card via an identifier when a transaction is processed. Other giftcards, often referred to as stored-value cards, have a fixed value whichis stored directly on the card and updated after each transaction.Stored-value cards eliminate the need for checkout and accountingprocesses at a remote site, thus simplifying network supportrequirements.

Counterfeiting is a major problem with gift cards typically mitigatedvia encryption methods and card design. Encryption methods are generallynot robust given the relatively low monetary value assigned to giftcards. In terms of card design, a magnetic strip is often placed at alocation along the card to prevent compatibility with many read/writedevices.

Furthermore, gift certificates and gift cards require the purchaser tobuy a non-customized greeting card separate and apart from thecertificate or card. This reduces both perceived and actual convenienceof gift certificates and cards.

Finally, gift certificates and cards require the purchaser or recipientto travel to a physical location operated by a retailer for the purposeof redemption. As such, many gift certificates and cards are never used.These lost transactions also include lost interactions during whichadvertising and marketing activities are possible to encourage impulsepurchases beyond the value associated with the certificate or card.

As is readily apparent from the discussions above, the related arts donot include a decorative gift item physically presentable to a recipientby a purchaser whereby the gift item enables the purchaser toelectronically customize online content for the recipient and furtherenables the recipient to access the customized content and redeem storecredits at one or more online retail sites.

Therefore, what is required is a system and method which allow for thepurchase, transfer, and use of a single physically-based gift item,enabling access to an electronic greeting card and redeemable storecredits via the internet in a secure, convenient, customizable, andcontrollable manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a system and methodwhich allow for the purchase, transfer, and use of a singlephysically-based gift item enabling access to an electronic greetingcard and redeemable store credits via the internet in a secure,convenient, customizable, and controllable manner.

In accordance with embodiments of the invention, the method includes thesteps of activating a gift key, customizing an electronic greeting cardassociated with the gift key at a host site via physical or wirelesslinkage of the gift key to a first local computer, accessing theoptional greeting card at the host site via linkage of the gift key to asecond local computer, and redeeming a store credit associated with thegift key at a retail website accessible from the host site. In oneembodiment, the gift key could include a housing, an integrated circuitwithin the housing, and a connector or wireless interface extending fromthe housing so as to allow linkage of the gift key with a computerremotely located with respect to the host and retail sites. Theconnector facilitates a physical connection between gift key and localcomputer. The wireless interface facilitates wireless communicationbetween gift key and local computer. First and second local computerscommunicate with the host site via a network, preferably the Internet.

In accordance with embodiments of the invention, the system includes agift key and a host computer system directly or indirectly controlling ahost site. The gift key has an identifier number and at least one webaddress readable therefrom and a security program executable by anintegrated circuit within the key. The gift key is linkable to a localcomputer system via the connector or wireless interface thereon. Thehost computer system interacts with a host site facilitating design ofan electronic greeting card associated with the gift card, display ofthe greeting card, and redemption of store credits associated with thegift key via a computer system controlling a retail website. Storecredits are either pre-stored on the gift key or added to the gift keywhen the key is purchased. The gift key communicates with the host andretailer computer systems via a network. The gift key automaticallylaunches a website at the host or retailer levels when the gift key islinked to a local computer system.

In accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention, the gift keycould include a three-dimensional device with a plastic outer housingstylized as a toy or other decorative object and a USB connectorextending or extendable therefrom. The housing could be a licensedcharacter, action figure, vehicle, or any object suitable forpresentation as a gift. The housing ensures the gift key has play valueand appeal long after the electronic greeting card is viewed and storecredits are depleted. Electronics within each gift key contain a serialor global unique identifier (GUID) number used as a cross reference touniquely identify the gift key for accessing product features, greetingcard, and store credits.

In accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention, the USBconnector enables the gift key to be physically connected to a personalcomputer or the like via a connector residing on the computer,thereafter automatically launching a web browser to a host and/orretailer website via Internet Explorer®, a registered trademark ofMicrosoft Corporation, Safari®, a registered trademark of Apple, Inc.,or the like. The serial or GUID number is communicated from the gift keyto the host or retailer website via encryption protocols, one examplebeing a 128 bit encryption format.

A purchaser connects or links the gift key to a computer prior tophysically transferring the key to a recipient. The gift keycommunicates a web address for the host site to the web browserexecutable on the computer. After security protocols are verified withthe host site, a website is automatically launched so that the purchasermight view the store credits accessible with the key and customize anelectronic greeting card which resides on the host website. The hostwebsite allows the purchaser to choose a card type, non-limitingexamples being a holiday, birthday, or other special event, and to embedtext, pictures, or videos into viewing areas on the electronic greetingcard creating a personalized message to the recipient. The electronicgreeting card and store credit information resides on the host site forlater access by a recipient.

After physical acceptance of the gift key by a recipient from apurchaser, the recipient connects or links the gift key to a computer.The gift key communicates a web address for the host site to the webbrowser executable on the computer. After security protocols areexecuted and satisfied between the gift key and the host site, a websiteis automatically launched so that the recipient might view the storecredits accessible with the key and the electronic greeting cardprepared by the purchaser, as well as access a retail website for onlineshopping and redemption of store credits.

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, the recipientcould access theme related content corresponding to the appearance ofthe gift key at the host website. For example, a gift key having acharacter-based theme might allow access to games, movie trailers, factsand biographic data, and other media associated with the character.

In accordance with other embodiments of the invention, the host websitecould include online links to one or more retailers when store creditsare not restricted to a specific retailer. Links could be specific tothe type of gift key so as to target and guide a consumer's shoppingexperience and/or increase sales of a preferred retailer. For example, acharacter based gift key could automatically forward a recipient to oneor more specific web pages at a retailer's online site.

Several advantages are offered by the described invention. The gift keyprovides both electronic and physical functionalities which incombination enhance the collectability, appeal, and play value of thegift item. Decorative aspects and electronic functionality of the giftkey provide for an overall package design which is highly customizablefor a specific recipient. Electronic functionality of the gift keymaximizes the flexibility afforded to the recipient in terms of use andredemption options. Electronic functionality of the gift key facilitatesaccess to theme specific content by a recipient so as to target andguide purchasing behavior. Physical aspects of the gift key provide afully integrated package design which avoids the cost and complexitiesof supplemental gift wrapping.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

-   1 Local system 35 Preview window-   2 Network 36 PREVIOUS PAGE button-   3 Host system 37 SAVE button-   4 a-4 f Retailer system 38 EXIT button-   5 Gift key 39 Display frame-   6 Port 40 Greeting card webpage-   7 Physical interface 41 Cover page frame-   8 a, 8 b Housing 42 Text page frame-   9 Circuit board 43 RETAILER button-   10 Integrated circuit 44 EXIT button-   11 Wire assembly 45 Gift value field-   12 Hook 46 Retailer field-   13 Chain 50-53 Step-   14 Button 54 a, 54 b Appendage-   15 Interface 55 Nub-   16 Wireless interface 56 Channel-   17 Wireless interface 57 a, 57 b Opening-   18 Light 58 a, 58 b Opening-   19 Cover 59 a, 59 b Opening-   20 Card creator webpage 60 Loop-   21 CARD TYPE button 61 Retailer level-   22 DESIGN button 62 Purchaser level-   23 Preview window 63 Host level-   24 NEXT button 64 Recipient level-   25 SAVE button 65 Retailer network-   26 EXIT button 66-82 Step-   27 UPLOAD FILE button 83 Slot-   28 Upload frame 84 Landing webpage-   29 ACTIVATION button 85 Advertisement frame-   30 Webpage 86 CREATE CARD button-   31 INTRODUCTION button 87 VIEW CARD button-   32 TEXT button 88 ONLINE SHOPPING button-   33 CUSTOM TEXT button 89 ONLINE CONTENT button-   34 SIGNATURE button 90 EXIT button

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Additional aspects, features, and advantages of the invention will beunderstood and will become more readily apparent when the invention isconsidered in the light of the following description made in conjunctionwith the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating interaction between a giftkey linkable to a local computer either physically or wirelessly, a hostsite, and one or more retailer sites via the internet in accordance withan embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view illustrating housing, circuit board,integrated circuit, and interface for an exemplary gift key inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 a is a front side perspective view illustrating an exemplarydecorative gift key configured as a keychain and having a movable USBplug fully retracted within a decorative housing in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 b is a rear side perspective view illustrating an exemplarydecorative gift key configured as a keychain and having a movable UBSplug fully extended from a decorative housing in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating transactional steps in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary webpage displayed by a host site used by apurchaser or a recipient to access online features via the gift key andwebsite in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is an exemplary webpage displayed by a host site used by apurchaser to customize a cover page of an electronic greeting cardassociated with a gift key in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary webpage displayed by a host site used by apurchaser to customize a text page of an electronic greeting cardassociated with a gift key in accordance with one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary greeting card with link to a retailer, forpurpose of redeeming store credits, displayed by a host site to therecipient of a gift key in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating interactions between retailer,purchaser, recipient, host and network levels in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to several preferred embodiments ofthe invention that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in thedrawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts orsteps. The drawings are in simplified form and are not to precise scale.The words communicate, connect, couple, link, and similar terms withtheir inflectional morphemes do not necessarily denote direct andimmediate connections, but also include connections through intermediaryelements or devices.

Referring now to FIG. 1, embodiments of the invention include a gift key5 having a physical interface 7 which is attachable or linkable to aport 6 residing on a local system 1 or a wireless interface 16 whichcommunicates with a complimentary wireless interface 17 residing on alocal system 1. The local system 1 could include a personal computer,laptop computer, or other similar device having a port and capable ofcommunication via wire or wireless means with a network 2. The network 2is a communication system which allows two or more computer systems tocommunicate, a preferred example being a collective electronic networkof computers and computer networks which are inter-connected throughoutthe world, otherwise referred to as the Internet. Communication by andbetween the local system 1, network 2, host system 3, and retailersystems 4 a-4 f are via protocols and methods understood within the art.

The network 2 also facilitates communication with a host system 3 and atleast one retailer system 4 a-4 f. Host system 3 and retailer systems 4a-4 f could include computer hardware and software which display awebsite or the like over a network 2 and allow communication therewithby one or more local systems 1.

The host system 3 communicates with a gift key 5 via the local system 1so as to allow a purchaser of the gift key 5 to customize a greetingcard associated with the gift key 5 via a serial or global uniqueidentifier (GUID) number stored on a read-only memory (ROM) or similardevice housed within the gift key 5. The host system 3 also enables arecipient of a gift key 5 to view the greeting card via a local system1. The host system 3 further communicates with a gift key 5 so as toallow a recipient to redeem store credits associated with the gift key 5via a serial number, GUID number, or other similar security identifierstored electronically within the gift key 5.

The retailer systems 4 a-4 f are accessible via the host system 3 andgraphically displayed on the local system 1. Each retailer system 4 a-4f controls a website or the like which displays goods and services forsale and allows for the purchase thereof. Although six retailer systems4 a-4 f are described in FIG. 1, the number of retailer systems 4 a-4 fcould be one or more systems operated by one or more retailers or thelike.

Referring now to FIG. 2, an exemplary gift key 5 is shown including atwo-piece housing 8 a, 8 b disposed about and protecting a circuit board9, an integrated circuit 10, a wire assembly 11, and a physicalinterface 7 and/or a wireless interface 16. The housing 8 a, 8 b couldbe composed of a plastic composition and include a decorative designwhich is printed, molded thereon, or attached thereto. For example, thehousing 8 a, 8 b could be shaped as a cartoon character as shown inFIGS. 2, 3 a, 3 b or have the appearance of any object suitable as agift. Also, the housing 8 a, 8 b, may include two or more elements whichare movable so as to change the overall shape and appearance of the giftkey 5. The housing 8 a, 8 b is intended to support and protect at leastthe elements mentioned herein.

A variety of circuitry designs and connectors could reside within thegift key 5. For example, a circuit board 9 could be fastened or adheredto the housing 8 a or 8 b and thereafter attached to the integratedcircuit 10. A physical interface 7, one example being a USB connector,or a wireless interface 16 could be attached to the housing 8 a, 8 b viaa fastener or adhesive and, thereafter, electrically connected to theintegrated circuit 10 via a wire assembly 11. Housing 8 a, 8 b elementsare joined and fixed via a fastener or an adhesive to form a protectivecovering about the electronic components described herein.

In preferred embodiments, components comprising the gift key 5 arepowered by the local system 1 via the physical interface 7. In wirelessembodiments, a power supply, one example being a battery, is providedwithin the housing 8 a, 8 b and electrically coupled to componentstherein.

The wireless interfaces 16, 17 could include devices which facilitatethe functionality of a physical connector without direct contact betweenthe interface elements. For example, wireless interfaces 16, 17 mayinclude optical devices, examples including but not limited to IrDAelements, or RF devices, examples including but not limited toBluetooth, WiFi, passive RFID tag, and the like, which enableunidirectional or bi-directional communication between a gift key 5 anda local system 1.

In some embodiments of the invention, the gift key 5 could furtherinclude a light 18 which extends from the housing 8 a, 8 b through alike shaped opening formed by complimentary openings 59 a, 59 b. Thelight 18 could be electrically connected to components on the circuitboard 9 so as to display the operational and/or power states of theintegrated circuit 10. For example, the light 18 could be a lightemitting diode, whereby the ON state of the gift key 5 is indicated whenthe light 18 is green, communication states between local system 1 andhost system 3 or retailer systems 4 a-4 f is indicated when the light 18is yellow, and/or a functional or power fault state is indicated whenthe light 18 is red. Other visual display queues are possible.

The gift key 5 could also include appendages 54 a, 54 b which replicathe arms, legs, and/or head of a character. Each appendage 54 a, 54 bcould include a nub 55 and a channel 56, the latter secured between thepaired arrangement of openings 57 a, 57 b, which compliment the shape ofeach channel 56 so as to fix the appendages 54 a, 54 b to the housing 8a, 8 b or allow the appendages 54 a, 54 b to move or rotate with respectto the housing 8 a, 8 b.

In some embodiments, the physical interface 7 or wireless interface 16could extend from the gift key 5 in a fixed arrangement through a likeshaped opening formed by the paired arrangement of openings 58 a, 58 b.An optional cover 19, composed of a plastic cup-shaped element, could beused to cover the physical interface 7 or wireless interface 16 in asecured but removable fashion so as to prevent contaminants fromdamaging the interface.

In yet other embodiments, the gift key 5 could include elements whichallow it to function as a key chain or facilitate attachment to a schoolbag, handbag, or other object. For example, the gift key 5 could have aloop 60 molded or attached to the housing 8 a, 8 b. One end of a chain13 could be secured to the loop 60 and the other end secured to a hook12.

Preferred embodiments of the gift key 5 could include an integratedcircuit 10 with both internal masked ROM and flash EEPROM with built inUSB controller. In one example, the integrated circuit 10 could be auniversal serial bus microcontroller, model number EM78M612, sold byELAN Microelectronics Corporation. The masked ROM could include twelvekilobytes of memory to store an operating system program. The operatingsystem program could include a self-executable program which isautomatically launched via an internet browser on a local system 1 whenlinked to a gift key 5. The program is intended to direct the localsystem 1 to a website controlled by a host system 3, as describedherein. The operating system program could also include a securityhandshake algorithm which transfers an identifier or serial numberunique to each gift key 5 so as to establish communication between awebsite at the host system 3 and a local system 1. Security protocolscould prevent hackers from altering or otherwise bypassing the serialnumber electronically stored on the gift key 5, operating program,and/or website link. The masked ROM could also include a number ofwebsite addresses allowing one web address to be selected based upon theserial number stored on the EEPROM.

In some embodiments, the EEPROM could include four bytes to store athirty-six digit individualized serial number. The serial number couldbe embedded with two digits which identify the web address of theretailer system 4 a-4 f stored on the masked ROM. This data could bestored on the internal memory of the EEPROM. In other embodiments, theEEPROM could be a separate device from the integrated circuit.

In preferred embodiments, the gift key 5 could include amicro-controller unit with internal EEPROM capable of storing a thirtydigit GUID number, one example being model number SPCP18E2A sold bySunplus Innovation Technology, Inc., a ROM element capable of storing anoperating system and web link addresses, and a USB 1.1 or higherconnector compatible with personal and Apple computers and capable ofcommunicating power to the micro-controller unit and other elementsalong the circuit board 9.

Executable programs on the integrated circuit 10 facilitatecommunication between a gift key 5 and host system 3. Communicationbetween gift key 5 and host system 3 is authorized after a securityhandshake algorithm is properly executed, thereby allowing an interfacebetween a website and a remotely located local system 1. The handshakeprogram is automatically launched and executed after a physicalinterface 7 on the gift key 5 is properly linked to a complimentary port6 on a local system 1 or wireless interfaces 16, 17 are successfullylinked. After the security handshake program is verified, theindividualized serial number is transferred from the EEPROM memory tothe host system 3.

Each EEPROM is programmed with at least one web address and a GUIDnumber or the like, preferably thirty digits long; however, the numberof digits is design and use dependent and may be longer or shorter. Insome embodiments, the GUID number may not be the actual account numberstored in the retailer's system so as to further enhance security.Non-correlated GUID numbers prevent the theft of account numbers becausethe latter is never passed from the gift key 5 to the host system 3and/or retailer systems 4 a-4 f. Theft of a GUID number alone is notsufficient to access and redeem store credits at the host and retaillevels.

Each integrated circuit 10 has an internal EEPROM that is unreadable bya hacker or the like. Since each EEPROM is internal to the integratedcircuit 10 and not a separate component removable from the circuit board9, the ROM operating system protects data in the EEPROM from beingretrieved because an external lookup table is required to correctly mapand retrieve the GUID number data.

When a gift key 5 is plugged into or otherwise linked to a local system1 by a purchaser or recipient, the gift key 5 automatically launches theweb browser executable on the local system 1 and addresses an invisibleform webpage residing on the host system 3 based on a web address storedon the gift key 5. The invisible webpage could have a thirty digit GUIDnumber embedded and encrypted therein via a 128 bit header triggertemplate (HTTS). Every gift key 5 calls the same web link address, oneexample being www.3dgiftcard.com/register, and communicates its devicespecific GUID number to the site for identification and authenticationpurposes. In alternate embodiments, the actual account number could bestored on the EEPROM and passed to the host system 3 via the invisiblewebpage. This latter approach simplifies database and bar codingrequirements at the host and retail levels.

After receipt of the GUID number, the host system 3 decrypts the GUIDnumber and correlates the GUID number to the account number and personalidentification number (PIN) stored within a database or the like on thehost system 3. Next, the host system 3 directs the web browser residingon the local system 1 to the correct webpage based on the card style anduser. For example, the web browser could be directed to pagesfacilitating the customization of an electronic greeting card when theuser is a purchaser and to pages which facilitate viewing of thegreeting card and redemption of store credits when the user is arecipient. In preferred embodiments, the system and method describedherein assumes first use of the gift key 5 is by a purchaser andsubsequent uses are by a recipient.

Digits within the GUID number are parsed to identify the style andnumber assigned to the gift key 5. For example, the first six digits ina thirty digit GUID number could correspond to the key style number andthe last twenty-four digits to the key identifier number.

The key style number could correspond to the decorative theme appearingon the housing 8 a, 8 b of the gift key 5, the retailer at which storecredits are redeemable, or another classification system which logicallylinks webpage content and design to the gift key 5 and/or its intendeduse. It is likewise possible for the key style to also identify theforwarding links to retailers which might appear on the host system 3and retailer systems 4 a-4 f.

The key identifier number is a number assigned to each gift key 5 foridentification purposes. The host system 3 processes the key identifiernumber to identify the account number for access to store credit dataand PIN or security code for a specific retailer, as well as anycustomized electronic greeting card prepared specifically by a purchaserfor a recipient. Accordingly, the key identifier number facilitates theautomatic launch of the key specific greeting card when the gift key 5is linked to a local system 1.

In preferred embodiments, the key identifier number should havesufficient digits to allow it to be processed as a credit card fornon-restricted retailer applications. Presently, most credit cardsrequire twenty-three digits to properly identify the account number(sixteen digits), expiration date (four digits), and PIN (three digits)for transaction purposes.

In some embodiments, it might be advantageous to print the GUID numberonto the housing 8 a, 8 b of the gift key 5 in a first bar code format.This bar code could be used to record the purchase of the gift key 5 bya purchaser at the retail level. This information could be communicatedto the host system 3 so that subsequent use of the gift key 5 ispermitted at the host and retail levels.

In yet other applications, a second bar code could be applied to thegift key 5 adjacent to the first bar code. This second identifier couldbe applied by an industry certified factory, separate and apart from thesource of the first bar code, and used to identify the account numberand optional PIN associated with the gift key 5. Two separately printedbar codes minimize potential security breaches otherwise possible whenthe same factory applies both bar codes. Correlation between accountnumber/PIN and GUID number could be performed by scanning both numbersat the point-of-sale by a retailer to a purchaser or at a factoryauthorized to scan and correlate identifiers, which is thereaftercommunicated to the host system 3.

In other embodiments, a single bar code could be printed onto the giftkey 5 so as to identify the account number and PIN only. The accountnumber would be stored on the EEPROM within the gift key 5. Thisapproach simplifies the bar code labeling process as only one bar codematching the device's EEPROM would be required.

Alternately, a single bar code with account number and PIN could beprinted onto the gift key 5 and the GUID number stored in the device'sEEPROM. When the user connects to the host system 3, the GUID number ispassed to the invisible webpage and the user is required to manuallyenter the account number and PIN displayed on the housing 8 a, 8 b ofthe gift key 5 via a security login page displayed by the host system 3or retailer systems 4 a-4 f. The login process could compare the GUIDnumber and account numbers stored by the host system 3 to properlyverify access to the host site.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 a and 3 b, the gift key 5 could include aninterface 15 extendable from and retractable into the housing 8 a, 8 bso as to protect the interface 15 and enhance the overall appearance ofthe gift key 5. The interface 15 could be a physical connector orwireless device, as described herein. The interface 15 would be disposedin a sliding fashion along cavity within the interior of the housing 8a, 8 b. The interface 15 could be attached to a button 14 likewiseslidable along a slot 83, as represented in FIG. 3 b. A user wouldextend the interface 15 in part or whole by sliding the button 14 in onedirection along the slot 83 and retract the interface 15 in part orwhole into the housing 8 a, 8 b by sliding the button 14 in the oppositedirection along the same slot 83. The button 14 could lock into one ormore positions along the slot 83 to secure the interface 15 with respectto the housing 8 a, 8 b.

Referring now to FIG. 4, one exemplary embodiment of the method isdescribed including the steps of activating a gift key 5, customizing agift key 5 at a host website 51, accessing a greeting card at a hostwebsite 52, and redeeming a store credit at a retail website 53. Thecustomizing and accessing steps are optional.

The activation step 50 is performed when the gift key 5 is purchased atthe point-of-sale by a purchaser from a retailer, online ortelephonically. The activation step 50 could include a variety ofsub-steps, non-limiting examples including: (1) purchaser buys a giftkey 5 from retailer; (2) gift key 5 is swiped to read magnetic strip orscanned to read a bar code on gift key 5 or packaging therefore, orlinked, via the physical interface 7 or wireless connector 16, to adevice, one example being a register, during checkout to read anidentifier, examples being a serial, GUID or account number, specific tothe gift key 5; (3) serial, GUID, or account number from the gift key 5is cross referenced to database information at the point-of-sale orelsewhere to validate gift key 5, store credit amount, retailer forstore credit, and other pertinent transactional information; and (4)gift key 5 is authorized for use at a host system 3. When the purchaseis made remotely, the activation step is performed before shipment tothe purchaser.

The customization step 51 is performed by the purchaser before the giftkey 5 is delivered to a recipient. The customization step 51 couldinclude a variety of sub-steps, non-limiting examples including: (1)purchaser links the gift key 5 via physical or wireless means to a localsystem 1; (2) gift key 5 automatically launches an internet browser to aweb address retrieved from the gift card 5 for the website at the hostsystem 3; (3) gift key 5 executes a security handshake program to enableinterface with host website; (4) host website retrieves an identifier,examples being a serial, GUID, or account number, from the gift key 5 soas to properly identify the gift key 5; (5) identifier is crossreferenced with database information to verify store credit amountand/or name of retailer; (6) purchaser could activate gift key 5 viahost website when gift key 5 is not authorized in sub-step (5); (7)purchaser designs electronic greeting card for recipient which couldinclude uploading image, video, and/or audio files embedded within thegreeting card; and (8) purchaser presents gift key 5 to a recipient.

The access step 52 is performed by the recipient using a local system 1which could be the same or different device used by the purchaser, asdescribed herein. The access step 52 could include a variety ofsub-steps, non-limiting examples including: (1) recipient links the giftkey 5 via physical or wireless means to a local system 1; (2) gift key 5automatically launches an Internet browser to a web address retrievedfrom the gift key 5 for the host website displayed by the host system 3;(3) gift key 5 executes a security program to verify identity and enablecommunication with the host; (4) host website retrieves an identifier,examples being a serial, GUID, or account number, from the gift key 5 soas to properly identify the gift key 5; (5) identifier is crossreferenced with database information to verify store credit amountand/or name of retailer; (6) recipient views optional greeting card,displayed by host website, associated with gift key 5 via theidentifier; and (7) host website could display advertisements specificto the identified retailer.

The redemption step 53 is performed by the recipient using a localsystem 1 which may or may not be the device used by the purchaser, asdescribed herein. The redemption step 53 could include a variety ofsub-steps, non-limiting examples including: (1) recipient links gift key5 via physical or wireless means to a local computer 1 to automaticallylaunch host or retailer website; (2) recipient launches retail websitedisplayed by a retailer system 4 a-4 f corresponding to informationretrieved from a gift key 5 by the host system 3; (3) recipient viewsand purchases goods and services from retailer via its retail website;(4) host website may display advertisements specific to identifiedretailer or content and theme specific media; and (5) recipient exitsretail and/or host websites. Direct launch of a retailer website couldrequire the execution of security protocols described herein to beperformed at the retailer level.

The host website includes web pages enabling a purchaser to customize agreeting card and a recipient to view a customized greeting card andaccess one or more retailers. Web pages could include a variety oflayouts and features. Webpages are written in one or more programlanguages understood in the art. Webpages are communicated to a localsystem 1 via the host system 3 over a network 2. In some embodiments,the design and content offering could depend on the design or theme ofthe gift key 5, as described herein.

FIGS. 5-8 describe several exemplary web pages used by a purchaser andrecipient to access online features associated with the gift key 5.Other designs, layouts, and options are possible, including access totheme specific games, media, and online information and resources. Webpages described in FIGS. 5-8 provide for one possible embodiment of thecontent accessible with a gift key 5. Web pages are not meant to beexhaustive of the appearance and functionality of the describedinvention, but rather are merely illustrative to assist in describingaspects of the online content and its function in the manner describedherein.

Referring now to FIG. 5, an exemplary landing webpage 84 is shownincluding a variety of frames, fields, and buttons. The landing webpage84 is an optional page displayed on a local system 1 via a host system 3after linkage of a gift key 5 to a local system 1 and a securityalgorithm is properly completed. In some embodiments, the landingwebpage 84 could be a single page with features pertinent to a purchaserand recipient. In other embodiments, the landing webpage 84 could be twopages separately showing features pertinent to a purchaser and arecipient. In preferred embodiments, the landing webpage 84 includesdesigns and features which are theme specific and/or correspond to thedecorative appearance of the gift key 5. For example, a gift key 5having the appearance of an action figure could access a landing page 84with an advertisement frame 85 which displays goods and/or servicescorresponding to the action figure. The advertisement frame 85 coulddisplay a video, play an audio message, or communicate interactivelywith the viewer via known formats and protocols. In some embodiments,the advertisement frame 85 could include two or more separate frameswhich appear at various locations along the landing webpage 84. In otherembodiments, the advertisement frame 85 could appear as the backgroundin a webpage or in the foreground as a pop-up screen. In yet otherembodiments, one or more additional advertisement frames 85 could appearon the web pages shown in FIGS. 6-8. An EXIT button 90 is provided toclose the link between local system 1 and host system 3 and alladvertisement frames 85, so as to redirect the web browser on the localsystem 1 to its default page.

The gift value field 45 and retailer field 46 display informationspecific to the gift key 5 relevant to store credits data stored at thehost system 3. The retailer field 46 could include one or more names.When the gift key 5 is redeemable at any retailer, the retailer field 46could include one or more suggested retailers to focus and directpurchases by the recipient.

The CREATE CARD button 86 accesses the web pages shown in FIGS. 6 and 7,as described herein. The CREATE CARD button 86 could be disabled afterit is first selected by a purchaser to prevent subsequent access by arecipient or reuse by a subsequent party. In some embodiments, theremaining buttons could be disabled to prevent access to these featuresby a purchaser, but otherwise selectable after subsequent connections.

The VIEW CARD button 87 accesses and displays the webpage shown in FIG.8, as described herein. The VIEW CARD button 87 could be accessible byeither a purchaser to preview a greeting card or a recipient to view agreeting card prepared by a purchaser.

One or more ONLINE SHOPPING buttons 88 access web pages at the hostsystem 3 or provide a hyperlink to web pages viewable from a retailersystem 4 a-4 f so as to facilitate online shopping by a recipient. Therecipient then browses the web pages selecting items for purchase whichare paid for with store credits associated with the gift key 5. Whenshopping is performed at the retailer level, the host system 3 couldtransmit the value of store credits available, account number and PIN,and other information transactional information to the retailer system 4a-4 f to facilitate completion of a purchase transaction via processesemployed by the retailer, after which the retailer communicates thetotal value of store credits used or remaining to the host system 3 sothat the host system 3 is able to properly updates its databaseinformation for the gift key 5.

One or more ONLINE CONTENT buttons 89 access online content from thehost system 3, retailer system 4 a-4 f, or other third party website,which correspond to the decorative design or theme of the gift key 5. Inseveral examples, the ONLINE CONTENT button 89 could display a movietrailer in a popup screen, allow the recipient to access an online game,or allow the recipient to view information. Online content could beprovided by the host system 3, a retailer system 4 a-4 f, or by a thirdparty. The ONLINE CONTENT button 89 could include a “straight link” to aspecific web address readable by a recipient or an “encrypted web link”whereby the web address is scripted so as to prevent a recipient fromdirectly accessing the content without the gift key 5.

The recipient could customize an electronic greeting card linked to thegift key 5 via the serial or GUID number. This identifier is crossreferenced at the host system 3 to identify the file or databaselocation to display a greeting card whenever a purchaser creates or arecipient retrieves a card.

In some embodiments, the electronic greeting card is a Flash-basedwebpage. The greeting card is created and customized to include text,graphics, images, video, and/or audio. Text message boxes may includeuser drafted text fields positioned anywhere within the active area of awebpage and adjustable with respective to the style, color and size offonts. Graphics and images in a variety of formats, examples includingbut not limited to JPEG and BMP, may be uploaded from a local system 1to a host system 3, resized, and positioned anywhere within the activearea of a webpage. Exemplary images could include clip art, backgrounds,and border. Video files in a variety of format, examples including butnot limited to MPEG and AVI, may also be uploaded into the active areaof a webpage and resized. Audio files in a variety of formats, oneexample being MP3, may also be updated into the active area of a webpageand queued to play when selected. Audio files may be created by thepurchaser via known methods. In preferred embodiments, an electronicgreeting card is created and customized by a purchaser using text,image, video, and/or audio templates.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a card creator webpage 20 is shown for thecover page displayed when the gift key 5 is first attached to a localsystem 1 or accessed via a landing webpage 84. A preview window 23displays the cover page in real time as the purchaser selects designsand uploads files for display on the card. In this embodiment, thewebpage 20 includes several CARD TYPES buttons 21 below the Select CardType identifier which correspond to holidays, events, and celebrationsfor which a gift is appropriate. The purchaser selects the appropriatecard type by placing a cursor over the button corresponding to theappropriate event and clicking a button on a mouse communicating withthe local system 1. Selection of the card type causes the DESIGN buttons22 below the Select Design identifier to be updated to display a designassociated with each button in miniature. The purchaser selects a designby placing the cursor over a DESIGN button 22 and clicking a button onthe mouse, after which the design is displayed within the preview window23.

Some designs may include an upload frame 28 to display a picture orvideo or play an audio message for the recipient. A file is uploadedfrom the local system 1 to the host system 3 by placing the page cursorover the UPLOAD FILE button 27 and clicking a button on the mouse. Apopup window is displayed to allow input of the name and location of thefile on the local system 1 which corresponds to the image, video, oraudio file. The file is transferred via protocols understood in the artfrom the local system 1 to the host system 3. Thereafter, the uploadframe 28 is updated to show the picture or first image of the video ordisplay a decorative image corresponding to an audio file. The coverpage design is saved to a file located on the host system 3 by clickingthe SAVE button 25. Alternatively, the purchaser may select the EXITbutton 26 to exit to the host website without saving the card design.

An ACTIVATION button 29 could be included in some embodiments to allowthe purchaser to activate the gift key 5. The ACTIVATION button 29causes sub-steps (3) and (4) to be performed from the activation step50, as described herein.

A NEXT button 24 is provided to allow the purchaser to display thewebpage in FIG. 7. Referring now to FIG. 7, a webpage 30 is shown forthe text page which is displayed when the gift key 5 is first attachedto a local system 1. A preview window 35 displays the text page in realtime as the purchaser selects an introduction, text, and signature anduploads files for display on the card. The purchaser inputs theintroduction by selecting the INTRODUCTION button 31 and typing thedesired text in the corresponding field within the preview window 35. Inthis embodiment, the webpage 30 includes TEXT buttons 32 below the Bodyidentifier which correspond to pre-prepared messages consistent with thecard type. The purchaser selects the appropriate text message byclicking a TEXT button 32, after which the selected text message isdisplayed within the preview window 35. A CUSTOM TEXT button 33 is alsoprovided so as to allow the purchaser to compose a message for displayin the corresponding field within the preview window 35. The purchaserinputs a signature by selecting the SIGNATURE button 34 and typing thedesired text in the corresponding field within the preview window 35.

Some designs could include a display frame 39 to display a picture orvideo or play an audio message for the recipient. A file is uploadedfrom the local system 1 to the host system 3 by placing the page cursorover the UPLOAD FILE button 27 and clicking a button on a mouse. A popupwindow is displayed to allow input of the file name and its location onthe local system 1 which corresponds to the file containing the image,video, or audio content. The file is transferred via protocolsunderstood in the art from the local system 1 to the host system 3.Thereafter, the display frame 39 is updated to show the picture or firstimage of the video or display a decorative image corresponding to anaudio file. The text page design is saved to a file or database locatedon the host system 3 by clicking the SAVE button 37. Alternatively, thepurchaser may select the EXIT button 38 to exit to the host websitewithout saving the card design. A PREVIOUS PAGE button 36 is provided toallow the purchaser to return to the webpage shown in FIG. 6.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a greeting card webpage 40 is shown which iswhen the gift key 5 is first attached to a local system 1 or accessedvia a landing webpage 84 by a recipient. The greeting card webpage 40includes a cover page frame 41 and text page frame 42 which display thepages customized by the purchaser, as previously described in FIGS. 6and 7. The text page frame 42 is shown including an embedded videomessage which is accessed by placing the cursor within the field andselecting the field via a mouse button.

A gift value field 45 and retailer field 46 are provided forinformational purposes. The gift value field 45 displays the presentvalue of a store credit available at the retailer named in the retailerfield 46. A RETAILER button 43 is provided to allow the recipient tolaunch the retail website associated with the gift key 5. An EXIT button44 is provided to allow the recipient to exit the host website andreturn the web browser on the local system 1 to its default page.

In preferred embodiments, one or more ONLINE CONTENT buttons 89, asdescribed herein, access online content from the host system 3, retailersystem 4 a-4 f, or other third party website, which correspond to thedecorative design or theme of the gift key 5.

The redemption of store credits could be processed via third partycompanies or the retailer directly via a secure connection between localsystem 1 with gift key 5 and host system 3 or retailer system 4 a-4 f.The methods and systems described herein are compatible with bothexternally and internally processed transactions.

Third party processing could include the steps of: (1) assigning anaccount number and PIN to each gift key 5 so as to avoid duplicate andconflicting identifiers; (2) bar coding each gift key 5; (3) storingstore credit information in a database accessible by the thirty partyvia a reference system which allows for tracking and accounting for eachgift key 5; and (4) interfacing with the retailer's managementinformation system to retrieve transaction data and adjust the storecredits available on a gift key 5. During a transaction, the gift key 5communicates its GUID number to the host system 3 which is crossreferenced by the host system 3. A portal is established to communicatewith a third party to verify the account number and PIN for the gift key5.

Internal or retailer processed transactions could include the steps of:(1) assigning an account number and PIN to each gift key 5 so as toavoid duplicate and conflicting identifiers; (2) bar coding each giftkey 5 by a certified factory; (3) storing store credit information in adatabase, managed by the retailer, via a reference system which allowsfor tracking and accounting for each gift key 5; and (4) interfacingwith the retailer's database to retrieve transaction data and adjust thestore credits available on a gift card 5. During a transaction, the giftkey 5 communicates its GUID number to the host system 3 which is crossreferenced by the host system 3. A portal is established to communicatewith a retailer to verify the account number and PIN for the gift key 5.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a flowchart is provided for one possibleembodiment of system and method for a gift key 5 implementedtransaction. The flowchart is not meant to be exhaustive, but rather ismerely illustrative to assist in describing aspects of transaction inthe manner described herein.

Steps 66-69 are performed at the retailer level 61 and include bothtraditional in-store and electronically-based, on-line events. In step66, the gift key is merchandised to prospective purchasers at retaillocations for purchase. In step 67, the purchaser has selected the giftkey 5 for purchase at a retail location, online, or telephonically andpays for the device. When the purchase is made remotely, the activationstep is performed before shipment of the purchaser. The gift key 5 isscanned to record one or more bar codes which appear on the device orpackaging therefore. The store credit assigned to the gift key 5 isassigned to an account number for tracking purposes either external orinternal to the retailer. In step 68, account number and store creditare cross referenced for later retrieval. In step 69, the purchasertakes possession and ownership of the gift key 5.

Steps 70 and 78 are performed at the purchaser level 62 and includephysical events by the purchaser and intermediate or electronicallyimplemented events, namely, steps 71-73, at the host level 63. In step70, the purchaser either physically or wirelessly connects the gift key5 to a computer. The gift key 5 automatically launches a webpageoriginating at the host level 63 and viewable at the purchaser level 62.In step 71, the host computer executes a security program to verifyidentifiers passed from the gift key 5 to the host. If identifiers failverification, access is denied. Otherwise, in step 72 the host computerwill verify the store credit value available with the gift key 5 at thehost level 63 and/or the retailer level 61 and could display FIG. 5. Instep 73, the purchaser customizes and saves an electronic greeting cardat the host level 63 and viewable at the purchaser level 62 via the webpages described in FIGS. 6 and 7. In step 78, the purchaser physicallytransfers possession and ownership of the gift key 5 to a recipient.

Step 79 is performed at the recipient level 64 including a physicalevent by the recipient and electronically implemented events, namely,steps 74-77, at the host level 63. In step 79, the recipient eitherphysically or wirelessly connects the gift key 5 to a computer. The giftkey 5 automatically launches a webpage originating at a host level 63and viewable at the recipient level 64. In step 74, the host computerexecutes a security program to verify identifiers passed from the giftkey 5 to the host. If identifiers fail verification, access is denied.Otherwise, in step 75 the host computer will verify the store creditvalue available with the gift key 5 at the host level 63 and/or theretailer level 61 and could display FIG. 5. In step 76, the recipientcould view the electronic greeting card stored at the host level 63 andviewable at the recipient level 64 via the webpage described in FIG. 8.In step 77, the recipient selects a retail site for online shopping andidentifier information is transferred to the retailer network 65.

Steps 80-82 are performed at the retailer network 65 and includeelectronically-based, on-line events. In step 80, the recipient shopsonline by viewing web pages at the retailer network 65 and viewable atthe recipient level 64. In step 81, the retailer network 65 verifiesaccount and credit information via a cross reference to a key specificdatabase. If identifiers fail verification, then access is denied.Otherwise, the user is permitted to view retailer's web pages. In step82, the recipient has chosen goods or services for purchase and executesan online process specific to the retailer during which store creditsare depleted from the gift key 5 and the recipient takes ownership ofthe goods and/or services. Steps 79, 74-77, and 80-82 are repeatable, ifstore credits remain on the gift key 5 after each transaction by therecipient.

The description above indicates that a great degree of flexibility isoffered in terms of the present invention. Although systems and methodshave been described in considerable detail with reference to certainpreferred versions thereof, other versions are possible. Therefore, thespirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to thedescription of the preferred versions contained herein.

1. A method for presenting a gift to a recipient comprising the steps of: (a) activating a gift key, said gift key comprising a housing, an integrated circuit within said housing, and a physical interface or a wireless interface communicating with said integrated circuit; and (b) customizing an electronic greeting card associated with said gift key at a host site from a first local computer, said first local computer communicating with said host site via a network, said gift key launching said host site when said gift key is linked to said first local computer, said gift key having a store credit associated therewith.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein said activating step includes: (i) swiping, scanning, or linking said gift key so as to read an identification number from and unique to each said gift key; (ii) matching said identification number to a database to authenticate the value of said store credit; and (iii) authorizing subsequent use of said gift key.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein said customizing step includes: (i) linking said gift key to said first local computer; (ii) launching a first browser on said first local computer to a web address retrievable from said gift card; (iii) executing a security algorithm to enable interface with said host site; (iv) communicating an identification number from said gift key; (v) matching said identification number to a database to verify the value of said store credit; and (vi) preparing said electronic greeting card via webpages at said host site, said host site displays said store credit.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein said customizing step further includes: (vii) activating said gift key for use via said host site.
 5. The method of claim 3, wherein said customizing step further includes: (vii) transferring said gift key to said recipient.
 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of: (c) accessing said greeting card at said host site via linkage of said gift key to a second local computer, said second local computer communicating with said host site via said network; and (d) redeeming said store credit at a retail website via said second local computer.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein said first local computer and said second local computer are the same device.
 8. The method of claim 6, wherein the accessing step includes: (i) linking said gift key to said second local computer; (ii) launching a second browser on said second local computer to a web address retrievable from said gift card; (iii) executing a security program to enable interface with said host site; (iv) communicating an identification number from said gift key; (v) matching said identification number to a database to authenticate the value of said store credit; and (vi) viewing said greeting card and said store credit at said host site.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein said accessing step further includes: (vii) displaying at least one advertisement at said host site.
 10. The method of claim 8, wherein said accessing step further includes: (vii) displaying theme related content based on said gift key.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein said theme related content is a game, a movie trailer, factual information, or media.
 12. The method of claim 6, wherein said redeeming step includes: (i) launching a retailer website via said host site; (ii) viewing goods and/or services at said retailer website; (iii) purchasing goods and/or services at said retailer website; and (iv) updating said store credit after said purchasing step.
 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of: (v) passing an identification number unique to said gift key to said retailer website for online transaction.
 14. The method claim 13, wherein said redeeming step further includes: (vi) exiting said retailer website; and (vii) exiting said host site.
 15. A system for presenting a gift to a recipient comprising: (a) a gift key including a housing, an integrated circuit within said housing, and a physical interface or a wireless interface electrically attached to said integrated circuit so as to allow use of said gift key over a network, said gift key having an identification number and at least one web address readable from and a security algorithm executable by said integrated circuit, said gift key linkable to a local computer via said physical interface or said wireless interface; and (b) a host computer controlling a host site, said host site enabling design of a greeting card associated with said gift key, display of said greeting card, and redemption of a store credit associated with said gift key via at least one retailer computer controlling at least one retailer website, said gift key communicating with said host computer and said at least one retailer computer via said network, said gift key launching a website from said host computer when said gift key is linked to said local computer.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein said physical interface contacts a port attached to said local computer.
 17. The system of claim 15, wherein said wireless interface communicates with said local computer via wireless means.
 18. The system of claim 17, wherein said wireless interface is enabled via Bluetooth, Wifi, or IrDa.
 19. The system of claim 15, wherein said connector is a USB plug and said integrated circuit includes a read-only memory, a flash memory, and a USB controller.
 20. The system of claim 15, wherein said housing includes a three-dimensional decorative design.
 21. The system of claim 15, further comprising: (c) at least one appendage attached to said housing.
 22. The system of claim 15, wherein said physical interface or said wireless interface is extendable from and retractable into said housing.
 23. The system of claim 15, wherein said recipient accesses said retailer website via said host site.
 24. The system of claim 15, wherein said network is an internet.
 25. The system of claim 15, further comprising: (c) at least one bar code disposed along said gift key, said at least one bar code corresponding to said identification number.
 26. A method for presenting a gift to a recipient comprising the steps of: (a) activating a gift key for use, said gift key comprising a housing, an integrated circuit within said housing, and a physical interface or a wireless interface communicable with said integrated circuit, said gift key automatically launching a host website at a host computer when said gift key is linked to a first local computer; and (b) redeeming a store credit associated with said gift key at a retail website via linkage of said gift key to a second local computer, said gift key automatically launching said host website or a second website at a retailer computer when said gift is linked to said second local computer.
 27. The method of claim 26, further comprising the step of: (c) creating an electronic greeting card at said host website via said first local computer, said greeting card stored by said host computer.
 28. The method of claim 27, further comprising the step of: (d) viewing an electronic greeting card at said host website via said first local computer or said second computer. 